San Diego, California, February 4, 2026
Democratic candidate Ammar Campa-Najjar has raised over $4.7 million in fundraising efforts for California’s 48th Congressional District, significantly surpassing incumbent Republican Representative Darrell Issa’s $780,000. This fundraising advantage positions Campa-Najjar as a strong contender against Issa, especially following major demographic shifts in the district. As the election approaches, other Democratic contenders are also in the race, but Campa-Najjar’s financial support suggests he could secure the nomination and challenge Issa effectively.
Ammar Campa-Najjar Gains Momentum in 48th District Fundraising
With Over $4.7 Million Raised, Is a Political Shift Coming?
San Diego, California – In the latest fundraising reports for California’s 48th Congressional District, Democratic candidate Ammar Campa-Najjar has significantly outpaced incumbent Republican Representative Darrell Issa and other Democratic contenders. Campa-Najjar’s campaign has raised over $4.7 million, while Issa’s campaign has reported approximately $780,000 in contributions. This substantial financial support positions Campa-Najjar as a formidable challenger in the upcoming election.
The 48th District, which encompasses parts of San Diego and Riverside counties, has undergone demographic shifts following the passage of Proposition 50, a redistricting measure approved by California voters in November 2025. These changes have made the district more favorable to Democratic candidates, intensifying the competition for the seat. Campa-Najjar, a former Department of Labor official and U.S. Navy officer, previously ran against Issa in 2020, securing 46% of the vote. He is now seeking a rematch, aiming to leverage his increased name recognition and the district’s evolving political landscape.
The State of Democratic Contenders
Other Democratic candidates in the race include San Diego City Councilmember Marni von Wilpert, who has received endorsements from former Senator Barbara Boxer and the political action committee Emily’s List, and Brandon Riker, a former Barack Obama staffer. Despite the crowded field, Campa-Najjar’s substantial fundraising advantage suggests he is well-positioned to secure the Democratic nomination and challenge Issa in the general election.
Darrell Issa’s Tenure and Challenges Ahead
Incumbent Representative Darrell Issa has served in Congress for over two decades, representing various districts in California. He has indicated his intention to seek re-election, emphasizing his commitment to the constituents of the 48th District. However, the changing political dynamics and Campa-Najjar’s strong campaign performance present a significant challenge to Issa’s re-election prospects.
The Competitive Landscape in the 48th District
The upcoming election is expected to be one of the most competitive in recent years, with both parties vying for control of the 48th District. Voters will have the opportunity to choose between the established record of Issa and the fresh perspective offered by Campa-Najjar and other Democratic contenders. This increased voter engagement signals a possible shift in political sentiment, encouraging robust discussions on local issues that matter most to the community.
Implications for Local Business and Community Engagement
As campaign dynamics unfold, the importance of local businesses and entrepreneurial innovation in shaping the economic direction of San Diego County cannot be overstated. Engaging local communities in the political process and fostering a business-friendly environment can lead to sustainable economic growth and the resilience seen in many small businesses. Moments like these bring opportunities for constituents to voice their needs and for candidates to showcase their plans for fostering a thriving economy while balancing community values.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is Ammar Campa-Najjar?
Ammar Campa-Najjar is a former Department of Labor official and U.S. Navy officer who previously ran against Representative Darrell Issa in 2020, securing 46% of the vote. He is now seeking a rematch in California’s 48th Congressional District.
What is Proposition 50?
Proposition 50 is a redistricting measure approved by California voters in November 2025, which led to changes in congressional boundaries, making the 48th District more favorable to Democratic candidates.
Who are the other Democratic candidates in the race?
Other Democratic candidates include San Diego City Councilmember Marni von Wilpert, who has received endorsements from former Senator Barbara Boxer and the political action committee Emily’s List, and Brandon Riker, a former Barack Obama staffer.
What is the fundraising status of the candidates?
Ammar Campa-Najjar’s campaign has raised over $4.7 million, while Representative Darrell Issa’s campaign has reported approximately $780,000 in contributions, giving Campa-Najjar a significant fundraising advantage.
What is the political history of Representative Darrell Issa?
Representative Darrell Issa has served in Congress for over two decades, representing various districts in California. He has indicated his intention to seek re-election in the 48th District, emphasizing his commitment to the constituents.
Key Features of the 48th Congressional District Race
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| District Location | Parts of San Diego and Riverside counties |
| Incumbent | Representative Darrell Issa (Republican) |
| Democratic Candidates | Ammar Campa-Najjar, Marni von Wilpert, Brandon Riker |
| Fundraising Totals | Ammar Campa-Najjar: over $4.7 million; Darrell Issa: approximately $780,000 |
| Redistricting Impact | Proposition 50 has made the district more favorable to Democratic candidates |
| Election Status | Upcoming election expected to be highly competitive |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Representative Darrell Issa to Run for Re-election in San Diego
San Diego’s 48th Congressional District Faces Shift After Proposition 50 Approval
San Diego’s 48th Congressional District Faces Potential Shift
San Diego’s 48th Congressional District Faces Potential Shift
San Diego’s Proposition 50 Redefines Congressional Districts
Marni Von Wilpert Announces Candidacy for Congressional Seat
Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
